What Is Diseases STDs

Sexually transmitted diseases also known as STDs and once called venereal diseases or VD) are infectious diseases that spread from person to person through intimate rather sexual contact. STDs can affect guys and girls of all ages and backgrounds who are having sex and it does really not matter if they are rich or poor. Unfortunately, STDs have become common among teenagers. Because today, teenagers are more at risk for getting some STDs, it is important to learn what people can do to protect themselves.

Sexually transmitted diseases or STDs are more than just an embarrassment but they are a serious health problem. If untreated, some STDs can cause permanent damage, such as infertility or the inability to have a baby and even death in the case of HIV/AIDS. People must know how Sexually transmitted diseases or STDs actually spread. One reason STDs spread is because people think to get exposed to the diseases they need to have sexual intercourse. But that is not true as people can get some STDs, like herpes or genital warts, through skin-to-skin contact with an infected area or sore.

Another myth about STDs is that people can not get them if they have oral or anal sex. That is also a wrong statement as because the viruses or bacteria that cause STDs can enter the body through tiny cuts or tears in the mouth and anus, as well as the genitals. STDs also spread easily because people can not tell whether someone has an infection. In fact, some people with STDs do not even know that they have them. These people are in danger of passing an infection on to their sex partners without even knowing it.

Some of the things that increase a person's chances of getting Sexually transmitted diseases are sexual activity at a young age. The younger a person starts having sex, the greater his or her chances of becoming infected with the infectious diseases. Having lots of sex partners is another reason of having STD. People who have sexual contact not just intercourse, but any form of intimate activity with many different sexual partners are more at risk than those who stay with the same partner. Unprotected sex is very dangerous for any one. Using latex condoms are the only way form of birth control that reduce the risk of getting an STD. Diaphragms, Spermicides, and other birth control methods may help prevent pregnancy, but they do not protect a person against STDs.

Preventing and Treating STDs is a greatly asked matter. As in many other diseases, prevention is the key for STDs too. It is much easier to prevent Sexually transmitted diseases than to treat them. The only way to completely prevent STDs is to refrain from all types of sexual contact, though if someone is going to have sex, the best way to reduce the chance of getting an STD is by using a condom. People who are considering having sex should get regular male or gynecological genital examinations. In order for these tests and visits to the doctor to be helpful, people need to tell their doctors if they are thinking about having sex or if they have already started having sex. People should never let embarrassment at the thought of having an STD keep them from seeking medical attention as waiting to see a doctor may allow a disease to progress and cause more damage.